EPRA Names Three Fuel Stations Over Adulterated Petrol as Trucks Are Seized in Nationwide Crackdown
Kenya’s Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has named three petrol stations implicated in the sale of adulterated fuel as part of a sweeping enforcement operation that also saw several fuel tankers impounded across the country.
In a public notice issued on Wednesday, December 31, the regulator warned that it would take “stern action” against companies and individuals found violating petroleum regulations, amid growing concerns over fuel adulteration and illegal diversion of export-bound diesel into the local market.
EPRA said the violations were recorded between October 1 and December 29, 2025, following intensified inspections and surveillance operations carried out in multiple counties, including Nakuru, Kakamega, Makueni, Mombasa and Marsabit.
According to the authority, investigations revealed that some petrol stations were selling diesel that had been illegally mixed with domestic kerosene, high-sulphur diesel or fuel meant strictly for export use.
“In Nakuru County, one popular fuel station was found retailing diesel adulterated with kerosene,” EPRA said. The station was temporarily closed before being allowed to resume operations after upgrading its fuel stock and paying Ksh 140,144 in taxes and penalties.
In Kakamega County, another filling station was shut down entirely after inspectors discovered it was selling adulterated diesel to unsuspecting motorists. Meanwhile, in Makueni County, a petrol station was penalised Ksh 132,780 after being found to have sold diesel that had been designated exclusively for export into the local market.
The crackdown also extended beyond retail outlets, with several fuel tankers impounded after being found transporting adulterated fuel or illegally diverted export products. EPRA confirmed that legal proceedings against the truck owners and operators are currently ongoing in court.
Marsabit County emerged as another hotspot in the enforcement operation, with officials discovering diesel stored in jerrycans containing high sulphur levels, believed to be smuggled products. Several sites at the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) yard in Moyale had their fuel seized, with the cases now under legal review.
“The Authority maintains a hotline number, 0709 366 000, operational during normal working hours to enhance enforcement and compliance activities,” EPRA said in its statement.
“We urge members of the public to report purported cases of petroleum fuel adulteration or export dumping through the hotline, as well as via our USSD code (*363#) and SMS service (40850). A full list of all sites found with adulterated products is also available on our website.”
Industry experts have repeatedly warned that adulterated fuel poses a serious risk to motorists and businesses alike. Mixing diesel with kerosene or high-sulphur products can cause severe engine damage, including failure of fuel injectors, pistons and catalytic converters, often resulting in costly repairs and reduced vehicle lifespan.
Beyond mechanical damage, adulterated fuel is also considered a major public safety hazard, as inconsistent combustion increases the risk of vehicle fires and emergency incidents on Kenyan roads.
Environmental experts add that such fuel contributes to increased emissions of harmful gases, worsening air pollution levels, particularly in urban areas. The practice also deprives the government of significant tax revenue, as levies and duties on legitimate petroleum products are illegally evaded.
EPRA said the latest crackdown forms part of its broader efforts to protect consumers, safeguard public safety and restore confidence in the country’s fuel supply chain.
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EPRA Names Three Fuel Stations Over Adulterated Petrol as Trucks Are Seized in Nationwide Crackdown